Samantha Weissbach

Holly & I met a little over a year ago while dancing in a show for 6th Day Dance. I had very little interactions with her during this process, but remember marveling at the duet she had choreographed for the show--it was truly inspired! Shortly thereafter, Holly contacted me asking if I would be interested in dancing in her own concert set to premiere in June. I had been out of the dance scene for too long & it was the perfect opportunity to get back into the swing of things.

Working with Holly was a truly phenomenal experience, and it was a match made in heaven. Following her show, Holly expressed to me that she was ready to start her own dance company. At this point, I practically begged her to incorporate me on the admin side of things. Being an administrative professional in my 'daytime life', I was eager to finally put my skills to use in the field I am passionate about.

Much to my sheer glee, Holly agreed to my proposition! As they say, the rest is really history. I could not have asked for a better partner in this venture--she's truly the peanut butter to my jelly in the delectable PB&J that has become Intrepidus Dance.

Why & when did you begin dancing?

I began dancing at the young age of 2 and haven't stopped since. It is my passion, my lifeblood--and has seen me through so many difficult and ecstatic seasons of my life. While I don't know why it was exactly that I began dancing, I do know that I CONTINUE to dance because of the personal expression it allows & the ability it gives me to touch others.

My photo is from my first ever dance recital--dancing in a tap piece entitled “Shaggy Dog."

What styles of dance do you specialize in?

My story is one we've all heard before--ballet dancer turned modern! I was classically trained for many years, and consequently ballet will always have a little piece of my heart. However, I've found that modern & contemporary play the heartstrings of my soul in a way that no other form of dance can.

Who is your dance icon & why?

Allison Holker, the woman with the most riveting facial expressions and the queen of 'no transitions.' There is something about the way she moves & expresses herself that is absolutely captivating & flawless to me.

Describe yourself in one word:

Dynamic

Would you rather have super strength or super intelligence?

Super Intelligence

What is your music preference?

I'm all over the place--the bottom line is I like quality, and anything that really makes me FEEL. A few of my favorites include: Mumford & Sons, The Liturgists, Florence + The Machine, Nicki Minaj, System of a Down, Frank Ocean, Ed Sheeran, Greg Laswell, Chopin, Lil Wayne, Beyoncé, The Used, & Macklemore.

What's your favorite movie or TV show & why?

Parenthood. Hands down the best TV show I've ever watched. It's simply the story of a family, and deals with real family issues we all have. It's the most genuine show I've ever seen & has a phenomenal cast. They just wrapped up their final season & I couldn't have asked for a more perfect ending!

Celebrity crush?

Olivia Wilde

What do you do in your spare time?

Spare time has been hard to come by for me most of my life--I like to keep constantly busy! Between the dance company, my full time job & my photography business things are always hoppin'. However, in my free time I really enjoy consuming red wine, spending time with friends & family, cooking, listening to music, & reading.

Do you have any phobias?

Emetophobia--the fear of vomiting! There is nothing I despise more than throwing up. Luckily this was something that prevented me from ever even considering an eating disorder. Well, that & my uncanny ability to consume anything & everything within a mile radius of my person... nom nom nom!

Lastly, what's a piece of advice/encouragement you would give to your 15-year-old self?

Little lady, you were meant to do SO MUCH MORE than you think you are capable of! You are not stupid, in fact, you're much smarter than you realize. Don't be afraid to ask questions, don't worry about what other people think, and be wary of those who try to distract or divert you from your dreams. Trust your gut; it will rarely do you wrong. Most of importantly, focus on and dedicate time to those you love--there is nothing more important than this.